Royal decides to hang on to its Majesty

In a surprise U-turn, Royal Caribbean International has reversed the decision to transfer cruise ship Majesty of the Seas to the company’s Spanish brand, Pullmantur.

The 2,380-passenger ship – at 23 years old the veteran of Royal’s fleet – is to be given a multi-million dollar refit that will add waterslides and an outdoor cinema screen, as well as the superfast wifi that was introduced on the lines Quantum of the Seas. On Majesty, passengers will have free internet access.

New restaurant options to be added include Izumi Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi rolls and sashimi; the Sabor Taqueria, featuring modern Mexican dishes; and the Chef’s Table.

Also coming on board will be the Dreamworks Experience characters such as Shrek and Princess Fiona, and an up-dated casino.

After the dry-dock upgrade early next year, Majesty will then sail three and four-night cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, including visits to Royal’s private island resort of CocoCay.

In an earlier announcement, Royal Caribbean had said Majesty would be joining her sister ships Sovereign of the Seas and Monarch of the Seas in Spain. The decision to keep her now means Rhapsody of the Seas – which had been switched to the short cruises – can be moved to Tampa for seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean.

“Our short itineraries have been very popular offering holidaymakers the perfect opportunity to sample a Royal Caribbean cruise, as well as providing a quick adventurous getaway,” said Michael Bayley, president & CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “With these exciting new features we are stepping up our game and offering a phenomenal short cruise adventure for our guests.”